How to Organize Your Computer Desktop

Our computers have become indispensable not only for work-related items, but just about every aspect of our lives are somehow digitally connected. The desktop of your computer can become a dumping ground for all things that land in your computer. When was the last time you took a peek to see how cluttered it was? Carve out some time to organize your desktop and put systems into place so that you can easily find what you need. Here are a few tips to keep your desktop in tip-top shape:

1. Remember, your desktop should really only be a temporary holding place to easily drag files, but it shouldn't be permanent. Take a look at what's on your desktop, toss what you can and file away the rest.

2. Pick a clean wallpaper. A busy wallpaper background makes the desktop look more cluttered. Consider a solid color and a smaller and/or faded photo that can peacefully rest behind all of the files and folders.

3. Organize your desktop into sections. Programs like Fences for PC or Dragthing for Mac can help you divide your desktop into sections. Just like your organizer puts things into containers.

4. There are programs that can automatically keep your computer and desktop clean and organized by setting up rules to follow. If you have certain items that always need to do the same thing, setting up rules can save loads of time and then the computer will know what to do. Try Belvedere for PC and Hazel for Mac.

5. If you can't seem to get your desktop to a place of decency, you can always create a new one. On a Mac you can create a new desktop using spaces in Mission Control.

Taking the time to clear off and organize your desktop will actually save you time in the end. Having good systems in place for incoming files and downloads will keep you more organized and productive.

Monica Friel is president and founder of Chaos To Order - the Chicago area's premiere organizing company since 1990. Friel manages and trains a staff of professional organizers who specialize in everything from household clutter to corporate chaos. 

Contact Us